At a glance

Your chance to

At a glance

5 nights guesthouse, 1 night farmhouse, 1 night mountain hut Guesthouses are simple but comfortable, most with en suite facilities The mountain hut is in a spectacular location and has dormitory rooms with shared facilities

6 days cycling with 100% vehicle support

90% tarmac, 10% easy gravel roads

Route follows mainly country roads, with some climbs and little traffic

Encounter dramatic volcanic landscapes

Iceland is one of the most geologically active countries on earth. The landscape is defined by vast black lava fields, towering glaciers, thundering waterfalls and erupting geysirs. The network of country roads provides an excellent framework for our two-wheeled journey, giving us access to some of the most impressive places in the south of the island including the infamous Eyafjallajokull Volcano, the colourful mountains of Landmannalaugar and the thundering Skogarfoss Waterfall. There are also a few welcome stops in thermal baths, a key part of Icelandic tradition. Add to this the changing landscapes and natural phenomena and you have an unforgettable week's ride.

Cycling profile

Daily distance in km/miles:

Day 2

70.0km/43.5miles

Day 3

70.0km/43.5miles

Day 4

70.0km/43.5miles

Day 5

40.0km/24.9miles

Day 6

75.0km/46.6miles

Day 7

60.0km/37.3miles

Number of days cycling: 6

Pace: Approximately 4-6 hours cycling per day

Terrain: Low altitude; 90% tarmac, 10% easy gravel

Itinerary

2Day 2Drive from Reykjavik to Krisuvik hot springs, ride the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula to Selfoss

Leaving Reyjkavik we transfer to Krisuvik, an active geothermal area known for its hot springs. Here we saddle up and start to ride the south coast of the Reykjanes peninsula, on the south west of the island. Our route takes us through ruggedly beautiful landscape, with lava fields dominating the view before giving way to long black beaches of volcanic sand towards the town of Selfoss. We stop at the beach in Eyrarbakki and transfer the short distance to Selfoss where there should be time for a soak in the swimming pool. We then transfer the final 10km to our accommodation just outside the town.
See more images and videos

3Day 3Drive to Seljalandsfosss Waterfall at the foothills of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano. Ride to Skogafoss Waterfall and on Solheimajokull Glacier; overnight at farmhouse.

Our day begins with a transfer to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall at the foothills of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano. Here we have our first sighting of the volcano that brought the world to a standstill with its infamous ash cloud. With this dramatic backdrop we continue our journey along the coastal road, flanked on one side by the North Atlantic Ocean and on the other by the waterfalls and mountainous landscape of southern Iceland. This road leads us to the Skogafoss Waterfall, one of the biggest in Iceland at 25 metres wide and 60 metres high. From here we pedal to the Solheimajokull Glacier, an outlet from the Myrdalskokull ice cap that runs down almost the entire way to the sea. We see this up close as we continue as far as possible to the tongue of the glacier before heading off to our farm accommodation.

4Day 4Ride along south coast to Vik past sandy plains of glacial silt, to the Skafta glacial river; transfer to Fjallabak area and mountain hut.

Today we make further progress along the dramatic south coast towards the southernmost town in Iceland, Vik. Ahead of us lie the vast sandy plains formed by gravel and silt from glacial rivers over millenia. It is this process that is slowly extending the land out into the sea. We finish our ride at the glacial Skafta River before transferring inland to the Fjallabak area and our mountain hut accommodation.See more images and videos

Iceland holds a host of natural wonders, and our morning drive to Eldja takes us through the some spectacular surroundings, as we wind through mountain passes and through canyons. This is quite a long drive however we make a number of stops. Our first is at Eldgja, a 40km long eruptive fissure that was created during one of the largest fissural eruptions in history. We pass through the colourful region of Landmannalaugar, who owe their bright hues to the metamorphic colours of geothermal alteration. Once out of the Fjallabak region we mount our bikes again and begin down the Thjorsardalur Valley, stopping on the way at Stong and Thjodveldisbaerinn, a replica of a sod farmhouse from the 11th century. From here we continue along the Thorsa River and down to the small settlement of Laugaras.
See more images and videos

6Day 6Ride through farmland up to Gullfoss Waterfall and on to Geysir and Laugarvatn.

Farmland stretches before us as we begin our day's ride, leading us all the way to the Gullfoss Waterfall, one of the most popular sites in Iceland. From here we forge ahead to Geysir, an area that needs little introduction. The plumes of hot water are a sight worth seeing, as they can extend up to 20 metres or more into the air. Our final destination is the village of Laugarvatn, on the lake of the same name.

7Day 7Drive to Thingvellir N.P.; ride western side of Lake Thingvellir, across Mt Hengill and down to Reykjavik, stopping to visit thermal pools on the way.

The Thingvellir is one of, if not the most important sites in Icelandic history. It was here that the first assembly was formed in 930. Today it is a national park, formed to protect the parliament area and the natural wonders around it. We cycle along the western side of Lake Thingvellir, the largest natural lake in Iceland and alongside the Mt Hengill volcano. We wind our way across the mountains before starting our descent towards Reykjavik. We stop on the way at the thermal pools in Laugardalur for a well deserved soak.See more images and videos

Your images

Guided Group

This is a small group guided holiday. The group is usually between 4 and 16 in size, with an average of 12 like-minded clients booking individually, in a couple or as friends together.

Activity level

You are moderately fit and have an interest in remote or challenging environments. Some previous experience is required for activity based trips.

What's included

What's included

All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners

All accommodation (see below)

All transport and listed activities

Tour leader throughout

Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

What's not included

Travel insurance

Bike hire (available locally from GBP115-paid on booking)

Single accommodation (available on request)

Visas or vaccinations

Accommodation details

Guesthouses, Farmhouse & Mountain Hut

You will spend 5 nights in a guesthouse, 1 night in a farmhouse and 1 night in a mountain hut.
Guesthouses are simple but comfortable, some with en suite facilities. The mountain hut is in a spectacular location and has dormitory rooms with shared facilities.

Single accommodation is available on request from GBP295. Please note singles are not available in the farmhouse and mountain hut.

Essential info

Vaccinations and Visa
No visa required for British passport holders.
There are no specific health risks. Holiday style

This trip is classified Moderate/Challenging, Activity level 4.
The route follows quiet country roads with little traffic. This trip requires a reasonable level of fitness due to the distances covered each day however the terrain is not challenging. There is also vehicle support throughout.

All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners are included.
Breakfasts are mainly continental style, lunches are generally picnics and the main meal of the day is usually local fish or lamb specialties, plus European standards such as pasta, chicken etc.
Vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements can be catered for, but may get a little less variety in the meals provided. Please advise us of any special requirements at the time of booking.

Trip notes

Download the detailed trip notes for everything you could possibly want
to know about this trip, including detailed itinerary and full kit list.

Weather & seasonality

Iceland is on the northern edge of the temperate zone, meaning it has cool summers. Daytime temperatures in the summer months can be anything from 10degC to 20degC, though in 2008 they reached 25degC and could equally drop close to 0. As we are in a mountain area you must be prepared for some days of poor weather with strong winds and rain, but usually the weather is quite pleasant, though cool. There is constant daylight, but not midnight sun, in May, June and July.

Gallery

Reviews & community

7 Days of great companionship, breath taking views and outstanding hospitality. The landscape is constantly changing, drivers were extremely courteous, giving cyclists a wide berth were ever possible.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Conquering the steep climb approaching Vic! And then of course the fun of the downhill into Vic. That was a beautiful day with the most incredible blue skies, the amazing black volcanic beach and the startling green of the country side.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had a fantastic group leader, he was knowledgeable regarding the geology and history of the areas we cycled through. He really supported a positive group dynamic and made everyone feel comfortable and part of the group. Our shuttle driver was also excellent and we were always happy to see the "green biscuit bus" on the horizon for tea and hobnobs!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for wind and rain. These were only issues on the first day(windy) and the last day(rainy) Every other day was gorgeous, blue sky and warm temps - make sure to bring your swimsuit for the fabulous "Hot Pots"

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Iceland was a terrific experience - the people were wonderful, the country was gorgeous and we felt safe and well looked after.

This is an amazing trip! You cycle through the most stunning landscape; passing ancient glaciers, rainbow filled waterfalls, and volcanos that are waiting to show their might! You see black sand beaches, puffins, the most photogenic ponies, and if you're lucky and look really carefully you might see the Icelandic elves. You can spend a week learning to pronounce Eyjafjallajökull (badly)! You feast on local salmon and lamb, and stay in guest houses with a warm welcome.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

After a great day in the saddle, soothing the muscles in the hot springs of volcanic water in the middle of nowhere.

What did you think of your group leader?

Kjarten our leader was fantastic. He volunteers with the Icelandic mountain rescue team, so not only did you know that he could handle any eventuality, but he was knowledgable and passionate about Icelandic history and volcanoes and had plenty of great stories. Did you know that volcanoes are all women! Nothing was too much trouble for him and our driver, Geirandan.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We were very lucky with the weather, and had five days of clear blue skies and just one day that was a bit wet. You definitely need to be prepared for all weather eventualities, and not mind getting a bit wet. Lots of our group had read the previous reviews about waterproof socks. Verdict was that cheap versions are no use, and the jury was out on more expensive ones. I didn't have any, and wasn't convinced!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is a wonderful trip and a great way to see some of the awesome sights of Iceland. I met some fabulous, really inspiring people, and really hope to visit the country again.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Questions about your trip

Pick your question

Can you always guarantee a bike available to hire locally?

‘In-country’ bike hire should be arranged at the time of booking, and the cost will be added to your invoice. Please note that there are a limited number of bikes available locally. We always have to match a person's height to the bike frame size and, as there are a limited amount of each size, we cannot always guarantee availability of the correct frame. Therefore it is recommended you add the local bike hire as early as possible.

Andy Ross - Product Manager

Anything I shouldn't miss in Rejkjavik?

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is not to be missed! This large lake of steaming hot water is perhaps the most supernatural looking body of water on Earth. Descriptions of its waters range everywhere from “the same colour as the new Gatorade drink” to “frosty blue.” Though the latter term may sound good, the water in the lagoon is anything but “frosty.” The temperature in the swimmable area averages about 40C (104F), and the soothing, mineral-rich water is rumoured to have curative powers. You can plaster yourself with the mineral-laden mud, let your shoulders be pummelled by the thundering waterfall, swim and venture into the sauna.

Kai Aylward - Sales

Is Iceland as expensive as they say?

Unfortunately, yes. Costs can be very high and you should be prepared for this. Any dinners not included weill cost about £30-£40 and a beer about £6. The local currency is the krona, and can be easily obtained on arrival. ATMS are availabe in most towns as well.

Brendan Phelan - Customer Operations

What are the mountain huts like in Iceland?

Accommodation in Iceland is expensive and often very basic. Those well -travelled clients will find the comparison with similarly priced accommodations in mainland Europe to be disappointing. However, we source good quality, competitive huts, guesthouses and hotels on the itinerary.

The mountain huts can be communal, often consisting of just a bed and shared facilities. Running water, toilets and electricity may be inconsistent or non-existent. Cleanliness is not always assured.

Katarzyna Crompton - Iceland Operations

Will it be warm in summertime?

Iceland is on the northern edge of the temperate zone, meaning it has cool summers. Daytime temperatures in the summer months can be anything from 10° to 20°C, though in 2008 they reached 25°C and could equally drop close to zero. As we are in some mountainous areas, you must be prepared for some days of poor weather with strong winds and rain, but usually the weather is quite pleasant, though cool. There is constant daylight, but not midnight sun, in May, June and July.

Kai Aylward - Sales

Exodus staff - expertise on hand to help

All the staff at Exodus share a passion for adventure travel, and are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You can find an expert for the area you are interested in here and can contact them to get further information. If you don't see your specific country listed, please email customerops@exodus.co.uk and they will get the answers you need!

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